A couple of key buildings are taking shape at the ongoing development at RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk.

The base will be home to new buildings for two US Air Force F35 squadrons from late 2021, housing the latest training and maintenance technology to prepare both the aircraft and crews to deliver their missions effectively.

The facilities will accommodate approximately 1,200 additional personnel who are expected on the base as part of the arrival of two new F35 squadrons.

A joint venture between Kier and VolkerFitzpatrick is delivering the project on behalf of the DIO.


Construction began in July with two important buildings now taking shape.

The squadron operations building will include an Aircraft Maintenance Unit (AMU) with separate administration, amenity, lecture theatre and classroom areas.


There will be similar spaces for both squadrons, with accommodation for each mirrored on either side of the building.


To improve training in a variety of different operational scenarios, work has also started on the construction of a flight simulation facility to train the next generation of F35 pilots.

Keith Maddison, DIO USVF programme director, said: "We are pleased with the progress achieved at the base since the groundbreaking event. The site is changing and improving every day and it is exciting to see key buildings like the flight simulator and the maintenance unit beginning to take shape.


"We are proud to be playing a central role in preparing RAF Lakenheath to become the first permanent international site for US Air Force F-35s in Europe."

At the height of construction, it is expected that there will be up to 700 people on site supporting the programme.


(CM/JG)